The NYC Hospitality Alliance is proud to announce Melba Wilson from Melba’s Restaurant has been elected as the organization’s new President. Melba’s term is effective immediately and she succeeds Doug Griebel of Rosa Mexicano.
Melba Wilson was born and raised in Harlem. She started her career at Harlem’s famous Sylvia’s Restaurant where she held many service and managerial positions. Early in her career, she also worked alongside notable industry leaders such as: Doug Griebel’s Rosa Mexicano, Chef Michael Lomanco, restaurateur Drew Nieporent, Robert DeNiro, along with the late Artie Cutler, developing the concept for Virgil’s. In 2005, she opened her beloved Melba’s Restaurant and Melba’s Catering, which serves 20 – 10,000 customers. Melba’s roster of accomplishments continue as she is a published cookbook author who regularly appears on national news and cooking shows.
“It’s with great honor that I humbly and graciously step into the role of president of the New York City Hospitality Alliance. May we break glass plates and ceilings together while we run great restaurants and bars, create jobs for our fellow New Yorkers, and serve the millions of guests who walk through our doors each year. I look forward to working with our past presidents, board members, members, staff and so many others to collectively support our industry, which we all so dearly love.”
– Melba Wilson, Melba’s Restaurant
“Melba has been an incredible force for the NYC Hospitality Alliance, whether she is hosting forums to enlist new members, speaking at press conferences, or advocating to reporters and elected officials about important industry issues. Melba is beloved by so many. She is a leader and an example of how you can rise in our industry from an entry-level position to an owner. We’re thrilled and inspired to have Melba as our President.” – Andrew Rigie, Executive Director, NYC Hospitality Alliance
The NYC Hospitality Alliance thanks Doug Griebel for his leadership and support as President! Doug has been with The Alliance since it was founded in 2012 and was elected President in 2016. Under his leadership, The Alliance continued to grow and fulfill the organization’s mission.
“It has been an honor to serve as President of this vital organization, and I’m thankful for the opportunity, support and all we’ve accomplished on behalf of our members. I’ve known Melba Wilson as a business associate and great friend for many years and am confident that she’s the right leader who will help lead the NYC Hospitality Alliance into the future.” – Doug Griebel, Rosa Mexicano and President Emeritus, NYC Hospitality Alliance
“Doug was always there to support our team and members. We’re grateful for his wisdom, guidance and the support he has provided to us over the years,” said The Alliance’s Executive Director Andrew Rigie. “We’re fortunate to have benefited greatly from his leadership.”
While Mr. Griebel’s term as President concluded, the NYC Hospitality Alliance is delighted to share that he will remain on the Board of Directors, and will join The Alliance’s first president, Jeffrey Bank as President Emeritus. On behalf of the Board of Directors, membership and the hospitality industry, we thank Doug Griebel for his service, and we welcome Melba Wilson!
